Building Legal Awareness among Indonesian Adolescents in accordance with Law No. 1 of 2023 on the Criminal Code: A Study by the Islamic Centre Foundation

Saidin Saidin; Mahmud Mulyadi; Abdul Aziz Alsa; Rosmalinda Rosmalinda; Fahrizal S.Siagian; Liza Hafidzah Yusuf

Authors

Saidin Saidin Faculty of Law, Universitas Sumatera Utara
Mahmud Mulyadi Faculty of Law, Universitas Sumatera Utara
Abdul Aziz Alsa Faculty of Law Universitas Sumatera Utara
Rosmalinda Rosmalinda Faculty of Law Universitas Sumatera Utara
Fahrizal S.Siagian Faculty of Law, Universitas Sumatera Utara
Liza Hafidzah Yusuf Faculty of Law, Universitas Sumatera Utara

Keywords:

Adolescents,, Awareness,, Criminal Law,, Law.

Abstract

The enactment of Law No. 1 of 2023 on the Indonesian Criminal Code (KUHP) introduces significant reforms to Indonesia’s criminal justice system, making legal literacy among adolescents increasingly important to ensure compliance with the law and responsible citizenship. Adolescents represent a strategic group for legal education because they are at a developmental stage where social interaction, digital engagement, and decision-making may expose them to potential legal risks. This study aims to analyze the role of the Islamic Centre Foundation in building legal awareness among Indonesian adolescents in accordance with Law No. 1 of 2023. The research employs an empirical legal approach using qualitative methods through observations, interviews, and document analysis involving foundation administrators, legal educators, and adolescent participants. The findings indicate that legal awareness programs implemented by the Foundation including legal education seminars, interactive discussions, character development activities, and community outreach have improved participants’ understanding of fundamental criminal law provisions, strengthened awareness of legal rights and obligations, and encouraged law-abiding behavior. Nevertheless, challenges remain, including limited legal literacy, inconsistent participation, and the need for more innovative educational approaches utilizing digital platforms. The study concludes that community-based legal education conducted by civil society organizations plays a significant role in promoting legal awareness among adolescents and supports the effective implementation of Law No. 1 of 2023 while fostering a culture of legal compliance and responsible citizenship in Indonesia.

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